| Producer | Racines |
| Country | United States |
| Region | California |
| Subregion | Santa Rita Hills AVA |
| Varietal | Chardonnay |
| Vintage | 2020 |
| Sku | U1010697 |
| Size | 750ml |
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Sourced from Wenzlau, La Rinconada, Sanford & Benedict and Bentrock, the NV Grand Reserve Sparkling (2020 Base) was disgorged in February of 2023 with a dosage of four grams per liter, after spending 2.5 years on its lees. The nose is effortlessly fragrant and refined, offering citrus peel, green orchard fruit, nougat and crushed stone aromas. The palate is elegantly chalky and succulent, exuding a refinement of mousse that is so difficult to find in domestic sparkling wines. It finishes with fine, chalky details and an ethereal lift, gracefully attaining its intended mission statement: a high-toned Sta. Rita Hills blanc de blancs made with Champenois intentionality and precision. -ML
What We Thought: This dry wine is pale gold in color with persistent perlage. On the palate the acidity is masterfully balanced with pear, yellow apple, lemon, blossom, gently stewed apples, wet stones and flint. This medium-bodied Blanc de Blanc wine is one to enjoy on its own or with light food such as poached cod, grilled walleye, and green beans almondine. Had we not seen the label this would very likely have been identified as Champagne. -Jim Bandy
